Tarn Taran, Aug 10 — Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Saturday inaugurated Baaj Akh, an anti-drone system designed to intercept weapons and drug smuggling via drones from Pakistan.
Addressing the launch, Kejriwal said three such units have been deployed, with six more to be introduced soon. “The smugglers who enjoy luxuries while poisoning society are the enemies of our people. They won’t be spared,” he asserted, accusing previous governments of colluding with drug traffickers. He also mentioned ongoing demolition of properties acquired through illegal drug trade.
CM Mann detailed that the government is investing ₹51.4 crore in setting up nine anti-drone units aimed at enhancing border security and combating drone-based smuggling. He said the initiative forms part of the state’s “Yudh Nadheyan Virudh” (anti-drug war) campaign.
“Punjab is the first state in the country to deploy such systems at the international border, giving a strong response to drug smugglers from across the border,” Mann said, praising security forces for their relentless efforts to stop cross-border trafficking.
He noted that in 2024, authorities seized 283 drones carrying heroin, weapons, and ammunition, while 137 drones have been intercepted so far this year. The anti-drone system will be installed along the border stretching from Pathankot to Fazilka, serving as a second line of defence alongside the BSF.
“Any drone entering the state can now be neutralized immediately,” Mann explained, adding that previously the Punjab Police lacked technology to counter drones. The systems come equipped with automated alert technology that notifies authorities instantly upon detecting drone activity, removing the need for manual monitoring.
To ensure effective operation, coordination will be maintained with the BSF, Indian Air Force, army, and other agencies, the chief minister said.
Mann also announced the introduction of an anti-drug curriculum in schools under the “war against drugs” campaign, aimed at educating eight lakh students about the dangers of drug abuse.
